Houston Texans: Five free agent RB options

Dec 28, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman (23) runs the ball during the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman (23) runs the ball during the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Tim Hightower (34) celebrates a touchdown in the first quarter of their game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Tim Hightower (34) celebrates a touchdown in the first quarter of their game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

Tim Hightower, New Orleans Saints, 29 years old

Out of football for 2012, 2013 and 2014, Tim Hightower was hard to root against when he was given a second chance at his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints last season.

After an impressive showing in the preseason, Hightower was cut but then returned after the position suffered some injuries. By season’s end, Hightower had 375 yards and four touchdowns to go with 12 receptions for 129 yards for the Saints and held up nicely as a lead guy the final few weeks.

The Saints Week 16 game showcased some of the ability the former Arizona Cardinal player still possesses. Against the Atlanta Falcons he ran 27 times for 122 yards and two touchdowns. He followed that up with another 66 yards and a score in their season finale.

After several knee surgeries, which followed his torn ACL in 2011, Hightower was able to finally get some relief after complications and infections from the surgery kept creeping back in to ruin his once promising career. After 2015 it looks safe to say he is returning to his form from his early days in Arizona and may be worth a look for next season at the right price.

Next: Could a crowded backfield lose a talented player?